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Astana Civil Service Hub Supports the Supreme Judicial Council in Improving the Judicial Selection Mechanism

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KazUnite – With the advancement of technology and the emergence of a new generation of professionals, organizations worldwide are rethinking their approaches to recruitment and talent development. Today, HR specialists have access to tools powered by artificial intelligence, big data analysis, digital platforms with career profiles, and elements of gamification. These innovations are being actively adopted not only in business but also in public administration and the judicial system.

In this context, the Astana Civil Service Hub has launched another training session for new members of the Supreme Judicial Council, focusing on advanced HR tools used in the selection and career development of judges.

Since 2021, with the support of the Hub, regular trainings have been conducted for Council members aimed at developing competency-based interview skills. Practice has shown that mastering modern candidate assessment methods helps enhance the objectivity and effectiveness of judicial selection procedures, ensuring a higher level of alignment between candidates and the positions they fill.

The Astana Civil Service Hub places great importance on its partnership with the Supreme Judicial Council and will continue to provide expert and analytical support on matters related to the selection and development of judicial personnel. 

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Civil servants from Central Asia, the Caucasus, and the Asia-Pacific region discussed the role of PPPs in digitalization and the use of AI in governance

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Over 40 government officials from Central Asia, the Caucasus, and the Asia-Pacific region gathered in Samarkand for the inter-regional workshop “Public-Private Partnerships in Implementing Digital Transformation Strategies and Using AI”, held on the margins of the United Nations Public Service Forum.

The workshop provided a unique platform for cross-regional dialogue, where governments shared experiences, explored collaborative approaches, and reflected on how public-private partnerships (PPPs) can accelerate the shift toward more innovative, inclusive, and citizen-centered public services.

Opening the workshop, Mr. Jamol Maxsudov, Deputy Minister of Digital Technologies of the Republic of Uzbekistan, emphasized: “This workshop comes at a crucial time, as citizens around the world increasingly expect public services to be faster, more transparent, and centered around their needs. Digital transformation and the integration of AI are becoming essential drivers of public sector innovation. It is clear that governments cannot implement such large-scale transformations alone – partnership with the private sector is crucial for accelerating progress and achieving sustainable results”.

Director of the Digital Government Cooperation Division at the Ministry of the Interior and Safety, Republic of Korea Mr. Byungjoon Park emphasized that AI presents both tremendous challenges and unprecedented opportunities. “To ensure that AI truly benefits humanity, we must work together across borders”, he noted. He also highlighted that the ongoing joint project, led by the Government of Korea, UNDP, and the Astana Civil Service Hub, provides a valuable space for sharing experiences and shaping a digital future that leaves no one behind.

Resident Representative of the UNDP Kazakhstan, Ms. Katarzyna Wawiernia, emphasized that PPPs are not merely financing tools, but platforms for co-designing public value. She highlighted their central role in implementing UNDP’s Strategic Plan and Digital Strategy, which prioritize human-centered, rights-based, and future-ready development.

In his welcoming remarks, the Chairman of the Steering Committee of the Astana Civil Service Hub Mr. Alikhan Baimenov emphasized that as AI and emerging technologies reshape governance, inclusive and strategic PPPs are essential. “The public sector plays a vital role in setting the vision, establishing regulatory frameworks, and protecting public interest, while the private sector opens access to cutting-edge expertise, innovative solutions, and investments. By combining public stewardship with private innovation, PPPs can drive agile, forward-looking digital transformation that maximizes societal benefit and minimizes risk”. He also shared findings from a regional survey, highlighting that cross-sector collaboration is key to overcoming institutional inertia and advancing responsible AI adoption.

As part of the workshop, participants shared experiences, lessons learned, and national approaches to integrating AI and advancing public-private partnerships in digital governance. The event also showcased the leading practices of the Republic of Korea and featured expert presentations by Piret Tõnurist (Senior Programme Manager, OECD) and Vincenzo Aquaro (Chief of Digital Government Branch, UN DESA/DPIDG), who presented global trends and initiatives in GovTech and digital public sector investment. The discussions reaffirmed that collaboration and continuous knowledge exchange play a crucial role in shaping future-ready and sustainable public governance in the digital era.

The workshop was jointly organized by the Ministry of the Interior and Safety (MOIS) of the Republic of Korea, the National Information Society Agency (NIA) of the Republic of Korea, UNDP Kazakhstan, and the Astana Civil Service Hub, in collaboration with the Ministry of Digital Technologies of the Republic of Uzbekistan and with the support of the UNDP Country Office in Uzbekistan.

As part of the event, a bilateral meeting was also held between the Chairman of the ACSH and representatives of the MOIS. The parties discussed further prospects for expanding cooperation within the joint project on digital development and artificial intelligence.

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For reference: The workshop is part of an interregional project by UNDP, MOIS, NIA, and the Astana Civil Service Hub aimed at enhancing the capacity of civil servants in 12 countries across Central Asia, the Caucasus, and the Asia-Pacific region. As part of the project (2024–2026), a series of workshops, research activities, and study visits to the Republic of Korea are planned, with a focus on advancing digital transformation and governance.

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How to Use AI to Improve Communication Between Government Agencies and the Public?!

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A three-day practical workshop titled “Artificial Intelligence for Effective Communication with the Public” was held in Astana for press secretaries of central government and local executive bodies.

During the event, participants explored how artificial intelligence technologies can enhance the efficiency, transparency, and accessibility of government-citizen interactions. Opening the workshop, Alikhan Baimenov, Chair of the Steering Committee of the Astana Civil Service Hub, emphasized the key role of government press offices in explaining public policy and highlighted the importance of equipping press secretaries with modern digital tools such as AI.

Throughout the seminar, participants gained hands-on skills in using AI to generate text and video content, analyze public opinion, and automate routine tasks. Georgian experts Ani Sirbiladze and Irakli Gvinianidze introduced simple yet effective tools that enable press services to quickly prepare press releases, create informative videos, and develop visual content for social media.

According to the participants, the knowledge they acquired will help make government communication with the public more accessible, transparent, and understandable for citizens.

Participants were also introduced to relevant international case studies and major AI-powered platforms. Special attention was given to the ethical and legal aspects of using AI, as well as the security of government information when interacting with such technologies.

The seminar served not only as an educational platform but also as a space for building professional connections and exchanging experience among press officers from central and local government bodies.

Following the event, participants will receive a digital guide featuring an international overview of trends and practical recommendations for the use of AI in public sector communications.

The workshop was organized by the Astana Civil Service Hub in collaboration with the Agency of the Republic of Kazakhstan for Civil Service Affairs, the Ministry of Culture and Information of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the Academy of Public Administration under the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, and UNDP in Kazakhstan.

 

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Wealth Icons Secretly Advocate Environmentalism? Personal prosperity and planetary well-being

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By Nazira Bairbek

In a world where lavish lifestyles and material excess often define success, it’s no wonder that so many look to millionaires and billionaires for guidance, adopting their mindsets and following their paths. According to social influence theory, this is a natural reaction—people are drawn to the stories and advice of those who’ve achieved extraordinary wealth.

But here’s the surprising twist that most people don’t realize: many of the world’s self-made billionaires and millionaires are quietly advocating for frugality over flamboyance. Yes, the same financial moguls who are often seen as icons of wealth and extravagance are subtly promoting values that not only lead to personal prosperity but also support the preservation of our planet. This isn’t just a coincidence. The very strategies they use to build lasting wealth are deeply intertwined with the cause of environmental sustainability, showing us that true success doesn’t always need excess.

From Warren Buffett’s humble lifestyle to the wisdom shared in personal finance books like The Millionaire Next Door, The Psychology of Money, and others, a powerful yet hidden message runs through the world of finance: wealth is about restraint, resilience, and long-term thinking—not reckless indulgence. These principles don’t just offer a roadmap to financial security; they also resonate with the urgent need for a more sustainable future—one that pushes back against the environmental harm of overconsumption.

In this article, we’ll dive deeper into how these wealth-building principles not only lead to personal success but also send a subtle, yet profound message about environmentalism. Success, it turns out, doesn’t have to come at the expense of our planet.

The Millionaire Next Door: The Silent Crusaders of Frugality

In The Millionaire Next Door, authors Thomas J. Stanley and William Danko unveil a surprising truth: the wealthiest individuals don’t flash their riches. They aren’t behind the wheels of sports cars or lounging in mansions. Instead, they embrace a lifestyle of quiet frugality, efficiency, and conscious spending. The book’s central thesis upends conventional ideas of wealth, suggesting that it’s not about flashy displays of excess, but about living well below one’s means, making deliberate, thoughtful choices, and avoiding the seductive trap of consumerism.

Through extensive surveys and interviews with affluent individuals, Stanley and Danko reveal a stunning discovery: the richest people are those who spend the least, not the most. Their wealth is built on the steady accumulation of savings, not on fleeting luxuries. And by choosing modest homes, driving older cars, and resisting the pull of extravagant vacations, these “prodigious accumulators of wealth” (PAWs) aren’t just securing their financial futures—they’re modeling a more sustainable way of life.

These conscious choices—living simply and investing wisely—are in perfect harmony with the ethos of environmentalism. By resisting the urge to overconsume, these millionaires and billionaires embody a mindset that could save the planet, one modest choice at a time.

Your Money or Your Life: Every Dollar, a Life Energy

Vicki Robin and Joe Dominguez’s Your Money or Your Life takes this even further, inviting readers to consider an intriguing notion: every dollar we spend represents life energy—the time and effort we trade to earn that money. This powerful reframing of personal finance shifts the focus from accumulation to intentionality. Instead of mindlessly accumulating possessions, Robin and Dominguez ask us to reflect on what we truly value and whether the things we buy align with our deeper purpose.

Through their nine-step program, readers learn to track their spending, not just in dollars but in “life energy.” What are we sacrificing in time, health, and well-being for that new gadget or extravagant vacation? This mindfulness cultivates sustainable living choices—buying second-hand, repairing instead of replacing, and investing in quality goods that last longer. These choices, while reducing personal spending, also cut down on waste, helping to preserve the environment by discouraging mindless consumption.

Ultimately, Your Money or Your Life teaches that the path to wealth is not paved with accumulation but with intentional, value-driven choices. These habits reduce personal carbon footprints, contributing to a more sustainable planet while enhancing financial freedom.

Antifragile: Embracing Simplicity in a World of Complexity

Nassim Nicholas Taleb’s Antifragile introduces an entirely new way of thinking about resilience. Taleb coins the term “antifragility” to describe things that grow stronger in the face of chaos and disorder, like fine wine aging with time. His philosophy, which stretches beyond finance into the realms of nature and society, calls for a return to simplicity—living with less, focusing on long-term investments, and avoiding the fragile traps of excessive consumption.

In Taleb’s view, overconsumption is fragile—it breaks when faced with ecological shocks like climate change or resource depletion. But societies that prioritize simplicity, durability, and longevity thrive in the face of such challenges. Just as resilient systems can withstand stress and grow stronger, antifragile societies—those that focus on enduring values and sustainable practices—become more adaptable and capable of thriving in turbulent times.

Taleb’s principles align perfectly with the ethos of environmental activism: live simply, focus on durable assets, and invest in the long-term health of the planet, rather than succumbing to the fleeting pleasures of disposable goods. This mindset builds both financial and ecological resilience.

The Almanack of Naval Ravikant: Freedom Through Self-Awareness

In The Almanack of Naval Ravikant, Naval Ravikant presents an intriguing philosophy about wealth. For Ravikant, true wealth isn’t about acquiring more—it’s about gaining freedom. The freedom to live life on your own terms, free from the endless pursuit of unnecessary desires. Ravikant’s minimalist approach to wealth encourages readers to step away from the consumerist mindset and focus on the internal wealth of personal growth and self-awareness.

This message not only resonates with the desire for personal happiness but with environmental sustainability. Ravikant’s call to reject overconsumption in favor of living simply and intentionally echoes the broader push for reduced materialism. By avoiding the trap of endless acquisition, individuals can free themselves from both financial and environmental stressors.

The Wealthy Gardener: Wealth Built with Purpose and Intent

In The Wealthy Gardener, John Soforic tells the story of a father passing down lessons of financial discipline to his son. The book’s message is clear: true wealth is born from purposeful decision-making, conscious spending, and a commitment to long-term growth. Soforic stresses that avoiding overconsumption is the key to financial success—and to a life free of unnecessary distractions.

Soforic’s narrative teaches that wealth isn’t about living in excess but about making intentional choices that align with your goals. By resisting the pull of consumerism and investing in assets that appreciate in value, readers can build both financial freedom and a life rich in meaning and purpose. And, much like other finance books, The Wealthy Gardener promotes frugality as the foundation of both personal wealth and environmental sustainability.

The Simple Path to Wealth: Reducing Distractions, Focusing on What Matters

Finally, JL Collins’ The Simple Path to Wealth brings the message of simplicity full circle. Collins advocates for living below your means, investing in low-cost index funds, and avoiding the distractions of materialism. In his world, wealth is not about accumulating possessions but about building the freedom to live life on your own terms.

By reducing unnecessary consumption and focusing on long-term growth, Collins helps readers avoid the pitfalls of consumerism and secure their financial futures. His minimalist approach isn’t just about personal gain—it’s a call to reduce environmental impact by rejecting excess and living with intention.

A Future of Purposeful Wealth and Sustainability

Warren Buffett still lives in the modest home he bought in 1958, despite being one of the wealthiest people in the world, showing that wealth doesn’t have to come with excess. Steve Jobs famously wore the same black turtleneck and jeans every day, prioritizing function over fashion. And Mark Zuckerberg has made headlines for his no-frills lifestyle, choosing to focus on his mission rather than splurging on luxuries. These iconic figures of success have embraced simplicity and purposeful living—values that not only lead to personal prosperity but also inadvertently align with the cause of environmental sustainability.

All their stories align with the hidden messages in the billionaire books mentioned above. By embracing the principles outlined in those books, you’ll not only grow your wealth but also become a more mindful individual. These books encourage you to prioritize long-term planning, conscious consumption, and resilience—values that not only lead to financial freedom but also help create a more sustainable world.

Even though the authors of these influential works may not directly call for environmental advocacy, the hidden messages within their teachings undoubtedly promote a better future for our planet. Their focus on frugality, simplicity, and intentional living aligns with a vision of wealth that isn’t defined by excess but by purpose and mindful choices.

This is the future of wealth: a future where abundance is not about having more, but about living with intention. So, dive into these books, build your wealth with purpose, and take part in a movement that’s bigger than personal success—it’s about saving the planet for future generations. It’s a win-win.

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Stop Being Selfish: How Instagram Can Help Us Save the Planet

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In today’s fast-paced digital world, Instagram is often criticized for promoting materialism and shallow consumerism. One of the researchers who focused on this is Vasquez, who conducted research on “The Cultivation of Materialism in the Fashion Community on Instagram” and published it through Arcadia in 2020. Yet, could this platform—beloved for its stunning visuals and influencer culture—also be harnessed for a much more significant purpose: environmental advocacy?

Instagram, with its 1.16 billion users globally, has rapidly become one of the most influential platforms in the world. While many use it to promote the latest trends and shop for products, others have begun to recognize its power as a tool for promoting sustainability and fighting climate change.

Instagram: The Power of Influence Beyond Materialism

It’s no secret that 90% of Instagram users follow at least one business account. As author McLachlan notes in her article published on Hootsuite, “35 Instagram Stats That Matter to Marketers in 2022”, 44% of Instagram users use it as a virtual store. Yet, environmental advocates are challenging the platform’s typical use and leveraging its power to spread messages of climate action and eco-consciousness. In 2020, researcher Lehbrink conducted a study titled “Being Green on Instagram: A Qualitative Study on How Green Influencers are Composing Their Messages and Arguments of Sustainability in Their Instagram Posts” that analyzed how environmental advocates use Instagram. This shift aligns with the research by scholars like Vasquez, who have previously argued that while social media platforms like Instagram are often linked with materialism, they also offer a unique opportunity for positive change. Similarly, other researchers pointed out that social media platforms can influence attitudes and behaviors in ways that could potentially help address global issues, such as environmental degradation. For example, in the research “Virtual Nature Experiences on Instagram: How Greenfluencers’ Nature Posts Drive Climate Action” published in the International Journal of Advertising in January 2025, Hartmann, Philipp, and others analyzed the effects of greenfluencers’ nature posts on their followers’ intentions to protect the climate. They found that the more frequently greenfluencers posted pictures of nature, the more likely their followers were to report virtual nature experiences, which in turn strengthened their connection with nature and increased concern for climate change, ultimately driving climate action.

Can Instagram Change Our Habits?

So, how can Instagram influence behavior when it comes to environmental protection? The answer lies in how environmentalists craft their messages. Instagram’s potential for driving social change is evident in a study conducted among Kazunite readers, where participants were asked about their social media habits and the impact of environmental posts.

  1. Frequency of Environmental Posts on Instagram
    Many researchers, including McLachlan, have pointed out that while businesses flood Instagram with advertisements, there is a notable gap when it comes to posts aimed at promoting environmental awareness. This study confirms that 45.05% of participants report rarely encountering posts that advocate for environmental protection. Only a small portion, 5.41%, said they frequently see such posts. This suggests that while Instagram holds enormous potential for spreading pro-environmental messages, there is still a shortage of content dedicated to climate change advocacy.
  2. Engagement with Environmental Content
    Previous studies by Saffer and others have shown that effective social media content often leads to higher engagement and increased action from users. The study showed a similar trend. 45.95% of participants said they sometimes engage with environmental posts when they see them, while 27.03% engage rarely. Interestingly, 48.65% said they were most likely to pay attention to posts that directly relate to their personal experiences or the issues that affect them. This finding mirrors the work of researchers like Spence and colleagues, who suggested that people are more likely to take action when they feel a personal connection to the issue.
  3. Visual Impact: The Emotional Connection
    As scholars such as Moor and McFerran have found, emotional and visually striking content is key to engaging audiences on social media. This was reflected in the study, where 35.14% of participants stated they would engage more with posts that contain emotional, impactful images or videos. Visual storytelling, as shown by researchers like Fahma, plays a critical role in shaping how environmental issues are perceived, urging users to take action.
  4. Does Instagram Influence Everyday Choices?
    The most encouraging part of this study was the realization that Instagram is indeed influencing real-world behavior. According to McGloin and other researchers, social media platforms have proven to affect daily habits, especially in areas like health and wellness. In this study, 35.14% of respondents admitted that they had changed their habits—such as recycling, reducing electricity consumption, and opting for eco-friendly products—due to the influence of environmental posts on Instagram.

Instagram’s Power to Drive Change

Researchers like Jones and Lee have long noted that the impact of social media can be substantial when it’s used strategically, especially when it connects people with immediate, real-world issues. This aligns with the findings from this study, which suggest that Instagram could become a powerful platform for environmental activism—if the right kind of content is shared.

The survey also revealed a significant disconnect between users and eco-friendly Instagram accounts. 45.95% of participants reported rarely following accounts that focus on environmental issues. This suggests that many Instagram users are not yet fully aware of the environmental consequences of their actions or may not feel personally connected to the issues.

However, the research underscores an important point: when environmental messages are presented in a relatable, emotional, and visually engaging way, Instagram has the power to inspire action. Content that directly relates to people’s lives or highlights immediate environmental issues is more likely to spark interest and drive engagement.

When environmental messages are shared frequently and crafted thoughtfully, Instagram can indeed influence individuals’ behaviors and encourage support for sustainability efforts. The study reveals that a significant portion of users have changed their daily habits to be more eco-friendly after seeing environmental posts on Instagram. This highlights the potential of social media in promoting positive change for the planet.

To maximize Instagram’s role in environmental advocacy, a focus on high-quality, emotionally engaging, and visually striking content is essential. By increasing the frequency and relatability of these posts, more users can be influenced to take action in support of the environment, helping to foster a collective effort toward tackling climate change.

Nazira Bairbek

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The Center for Supporting Women in Culture was opened in Astana

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The Rixos President Hotel recently hosted the Opening of the Center for Supporting Women in Culture – ART QALQA (AQ). The inaugural event featured an exhibition by artist Asemgul Zhanakhmetova, titled “The World through the Woman’s Eyes” where she skillfully blends elements of traditional Kazakh culture with modern artistic techniques.

The event brought together women from diverse creative professions – writers, artists, musicians, performers, as well as key figures from business, Parliament, Embassies, and international organizations. The goal was to create a dynamic platform for sharing ideas and exploring opportunities for collaboration and development.

The British Ambassador to Kazakhstan Kate Lynch and representatives of the Turkish Embassy and the US Embassy attended the event.

The AQ Center’s mission is to contribute to a more inclusive, open, and prosperous society by promoting and supporting women’s creative projects on both a national and international level. The Center is already in discussions with organizers of international exhibitions, art festivals and educational programs from countries such as Italy, Turkey, and others, further expanding its reach and influence.

The creation of the AQ Center is driven by women working in various areas of Kazakhstan’s cultural industry. Their efforts are focused on fostering female leadership, supporting emerging talent, enhancing professional skills, and building a strong network of active and creative women committed to shaping the future of culture.

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Personnel changes in the management of the Togyzkumalak Sports Federation of the Republic of Kazakhstan

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Akim Tursun was elected President of the Federation of Sports Togyzkumalak of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Prominent public figure Alikhan Baimenov was confirmed as the Honorary President of the Organization and will continue to serve as the President of the World Togyzkumalak Federation

At a meeting of the Federation in Astana, Alikhan Baimenov proposed the candidacy of Akim Tursun for the post of Head of the Federation. Previously, he held the position of vice-president of the Federation of Sports Togyzkumalak of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The heads of regional federations, togyzkumalak figures and the management of the Federation supported the proposal, electing Akim Tursun as President of the Federation of Sports Togyzkumalak of the Republic of Kazakhstan.

Alikhan Baimenov had headed the Republican Federation from 2004 to 2025. At this meeting, the vice-presidents of the federation were also elected: Batyrbek Kulekeyev, Sholpan Kadyrova, Maksat Shotayev and Daulet Abdykarimov. Maksat Shotayev, in addition to the position of vice-president, combines the duties of the Secretary General of the World Togyzkumalak Federation.

Togyzkumalak is a Kazakh mathematical and logical game with a 4,000-year history. In 2020, togyzkumalak, along with other nations’ alternatives such as toguz korgool and mangala/göçürme, was inscribed in the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization’s (UNESCO) Intangible Cultural Heritage List through a joint submission of Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, and Türkiye.

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Civil Servants from Central Asia and the Caucasus discussed the potential of AI in the Public Sector

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In Phnom Penh (Cambodia) a workshop focused on exploring the potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the public sector. The event brought together over 60 representatives from 12 countries across Central Asia, the Caucasus, and the Asia-Pacific regions, along with leading experts from the Republic of Korea, UNDP, International Telecommunication Union (ITU), and the World Bank.

Over two days, participants examined key aspects of practical AI application in public service. They reviewed the strategic AI deployment and studied successful cases of AI-driven digital government transformation.

Discussions also covered planning for future AI integration, AI-based innovation, and the use of AI and big data for risk and vulnerability assessment. Significant attention was paid to AI standards and ethical considerations. A visit to the Cambodia Academy of Digital Technology (CADT) provided participants with insights into local initiatives focused on developing digital competencies, skills, and training programmes for civil servants and the public.

Opening the workshop, the Director of the Public Data Policy Division at the Ministry of the Interior and Safety of the Republic of Korea, Hansung Jun, emphasized that AI is evolving into a transformative technology capable of offering preemptive and personalized services to people based on situational judgment and reasoning. However, he also highlighted the importance of addressing ethical risks, security concerns, and the need for international cooperation in developing effective strategies. He also reaffirmed Korea’s commitment to continue sharing its valuable expertise in this domain.

The Resident Representative of the UNDP Cambodia, Alissar Chaker, emphasized the importance of international collaboration and the role of AI in digital transformation, noting that AI unlocks unprecedented opportunities for innovation, efficiency, and citizen-centric services and making them accessible to all, especially vulnerable groups.

The Project Manager of the Astana Civil Service Hub, UNDP Kazakhstan, Bakyt Zhexembay, stressed the significance of cooperation and knowledge exchange in the AI field, which will lead to valuable insights and strengthen partnerships between countries. Collaborative efforts can contribute to formulating ways and means for incorporating AI in the public sector for the benefits of citizens and governments.

Cambodia’s Minister of Post and Telecommunications, H.E. Vandeth Chea, highlighted the importance of applying AI in the public sector, which not only streamlines processes but also opens new opportunities for making more informed and efficient decisions. He noted that AI usage has the potential for enhancing the quality of public services, enabling governments to respond more quickly to citizens’ challenges and needs. The Minister also stressed the significance of international collaboration in successfully integrating AI and other innovative solutions into public administration.

The workshop served as a productive platform for collaboration and knowledge sharing, equipping participants with the the tools to effectively leverage AI for improving public services and governance.

The workshop is part of an inter-regional project, funded by the Republic of Korea and jointly implemented by the Ministry of the Interior and Safety (MOIS), National Information Society Agency (NIA) of the Republic of Korea, UNDP Kazakhstan and the Astana Civil Service Hub (ACSH), aimed at developing the capacity of civil servants to drive digital transformation and governance.

The event was co-hosted by the by the Ministry of Post and Telecommunications (MPTC) of the Kingdom of Cambodia and the Cambodian Academy of Digital Technologies (CADT), and with support from UNDP Country Office in Cambodia.

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For reference: The workshop is part of a joint regional project by UNDP, the ACSH, MOIS, and NIA aimed at enhancing the capacity of civil servants and practitioners working on advancing digital transformation and public governance from 12 countries: Central Asia (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan), the Caucasus (Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia), and the Asia-Pacific region (Bangladesh, Cambodia, Laos, Mongolia, and the Philippines). Building on the successes of the previous phase of the project, this three-year project (2024–2026) includes workshops, conferences, research, and study visits to the Republic of Korea, focusing on advancing digital transformation and governance.

 

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Central Asia and China Strengthen Cooperation in Public Administration

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Beijing hosted a seminar on public administration, which included heads of the Academies public administration of China and Central Asian countries: Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan. During the visit, participants explored China’s experience in governance, including innovative projects, and discussed opportunities for collaborative initiatives.

On the first day, an official meeting took place between Alikhan Baimenov, Chairman of the Steering Committee of the Astana Civil Service Hub, and Li Yi, First Vice President of the China National Academy of Governance.

Mr. Yi emphasized that the China-Central Asia Network of the Academies of Governance and Public Administration (hereinafter – Network), established last year, holds great importance for experience exchange and enhancing the capabilities of its members. He highlighted the special role of the Astana Civil Service Hub within this Network as an internationally recognized platform in public administration and civil service.

Mr. Baimenov noted that the China-Central Asia Network provides a solid institutional foundation for continuous experience and knowledge exchange, and that last year’s initiatives are currently being actively implemented. This year, a delegation from the China National Academy of Governance, led by Executive Vice President Xie Chuntao, along with heads and professors from the Gansu Provincial Government Academies and the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps, visited Kazakhstan.

On the second day, a seminar titled “Joint Work on Modernizing Management Potential” was held, featuring presentations of heads of governance and public administration academies from China and Central Asian countries, along with representatives from the Astana Civil Service Hub.

As part of the visit program, delegations from the member countries of the Network were introduced to the activities of the Hangzhou Academy of Governance, Hangzhou City Brain Operation Command Center, and two of China’s largest digital companies.

iFLYTEK (based in Beijing) showcased its advancements in AI across various fields, including simultaneous translation, education, and medicine. Meanwhile, Alibaba (located in Hangzhou) highlighted its achievements over the past 25 years, covering areas such as e-commerce, medicine, tourism, and education.

Additionally, Jinshan and Xiaogucheng villages in Zhejiang Province presented successful examples of local governance and community revival.

In 2023, an agreement (concencus document) was signed in Beijing to establish the China-Central Asia Network of Academies of Governance and Public Administration. This network includes public administration academies from six countries: China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan, as well as the Astana Civil Service Hub. The primary goal of this network is to facilitate the exchange of experience and knowledge related to the transformation of public administration, including personnel training and retraining.

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Dimash Kudaibergen to perform in Singer 2024 contest final

Photo credit: Weibo
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Kazakh-born world-famous singer Dimash Kudaibergen will perform in the final of Hunan TV’s Singer 2024 vocal competition in China, KazUnite reports.

According to Chinese microblogging  website Weibo, the final will be broadcast live on July 26. In the first round, the finalists will perform in a duet with well-known singers. The second round will see only four singers, who will compete solo.

Dimash will join the event as a guest of honor and will perform together with Chanté Moore.

Kazakh singer Ruhiya Baiduken, unfortunately, failed to move to the 9th round of the competition.

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